Space Planning Manager

at  Department for Work and Pensions

JOB DESCRIPTION

Government Property Profession Career Framework (Link)

This role sits within the following:

• Job Family – Technical Specialisms & Assurance
• Core Role - Design
• Level - Practitioner

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Work with key stakeholders to obtain and help develop project briefs. Ensure available drawings are an accurate representation of each building. Use DWP space modelling tools and liaise with the wider Workplace Design team and stakeholders to prepare layout plans in CAD software.
• Ensure layout information is accurately captured on the Computer Aided Facility Management (CAFM) system.
• Classify space, within the CAFM system, according to pertinent standards (such as the International Property Measurement Standards) in order to support effective space management.
• Prepare reports on current space utilisation across different elements of the estate and conduct space feasibility studies while working to improve the quality of estates space planning data by tracking occupancy levels.
• Floor layouts to include furniture, fixtures and equipment using computer aided design software with a focus on smart working principles as described in PAS3000 (Publicly Available Specification).
• Engaging with suppliers to be fully informed of new products and innovations that could benefit the DWP.
• Providing timely direction and technical advice to external designers and supply chain partners to ensure the developing proposals meet quality standards and the operational requirements of the DWP.
• Reviewing and commenting on floor plans and test fits at key project stages and approving compliance with, or justifiable derogations, from the space standards for all Real Estate projects.
• Carrying out post-occupancy evaluation and stakeholder engagement sessions, converting feedback into updates to the Design Standards documentation to capture problems, trends, or changes to space requirements.
• Management of supply chain partners, including scoping of services, working with suppliers to get a quality outcome, checking invoices, and training.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• Background in space planning, interior design, architecture or similar design experience.
• Proven results and success in developing, planning, managing, and implementing workplace layout plans and space solutions within a dynamic environment.
• Experience of dealing with technical, legal, or regulatory design issues at a practical level.
• Experience in reviewing plans, space planning, building test fits and analysing/ commenting on RIBA stage reports. Candidate will need to have demonstrable CAD skills and knowledge of architectural drafting standards.
• Excellent organisational skills and the drive to reach decisions in a problem-solving atmosphere.
• Working knowledge of statutory processes, Building Regulations, British Standards, and an understanding of construction related UK legislation.
• Ability to use evidence alongside analytical thinking to make decisions and to present in a clear and concise style varying the presentation according to the target audience.
• Ability to work collaboratively with mixed teams, consultants and stakeholders.
• Able to analyse data and determine utilisation and other space management metrics.
• Good working knowledge of space management computer applications, working knowledge of space utilisation and facilities management tools.

Desirable Experience, Skills and Experience

• Experience of working in central government/public sector.
• Experience of using Revit.

Qualifications/professional memberships

Desirable

• Working towards membership of the IWFM, RICS, RIBA or other appropriate body with a preference if already held.
• Any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.

NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS

This job is broadly open to the following groups:

• UK nationals
• nationals of the Republic of Ireland
• nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window)
• nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
• individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
• Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service

Further information on nationality requirements (opens in a new window)

This role sits within the following:

• Job Family – Technical Specialisms & Assurance
• Core Role - Design
• Level - Practitione